Hello team,
I have a silly situation, my truck averages around 3-4 K miles per year. I used to change oil just before summer every year but this year my truck has clocked less than 2 K miles since last change May 2012. Do you think I need to change the oil regardless? I use Rotella Synthetic every time.

 

For $100 I'd still do it annually at least. Cheap insurance.

 

I would change the oil.

 

Acids can build up from the effects of internal combustion which in small amounts leak past the ring gaps - etc.

The base oil does not break down, but the additive package has a finite life span, both from a elapsed time and usage point. Some of these additives are designed to counter the acids that build up, although in very small amounts in a modern engine compared to a older engine.

Absolutely no need to change every three months like the oil change places proclaim. Makes them money though and that is what they are in business for, can't fault that as they are a for profit business and does it does no harm to the engine but does make ones pocket book lighter.

Once a year is a good number if you do not drive the truck enough to accumulate the requisite miles for a oil change.

David

 

You might send a sample to Blackstone oil testing.
Instead of using the once a year approach, which by the way I agree with, they will analyze your oil and give you an answer based on true data.
No guessing then.

 

Great topic! I'm like Vijay putting 3-4 Km a year on my '02 F250 5.4. I change once a year in the spring (Quaker State 5-20)....just can't justify doing it any more than that.

 

The last sample I sent to Black Stone Labs had been in my truck for over 13 months. Everything looked great. This was on a 2000 7.3 BTW.

 

I am in the same boat as you and I always change mine every year. Every engine I own gets changed at least once a year if not more frequently because of use, miles or hours.

 

I wouldn't, full synthetic and what 3 gallons of oil? should be just fine. If you do I'd surely go back to the cheaper dino oil. No reason running the expensive stuff.